Star Trek: Into Darkness may not have been the fan-pleasing, critical darling that many had hoped it would be. However, it still offered some thrilling action with some brilliantly Christopher Nolan-esque themes and a fantastic performance from Benedict Cumberbatch.
Now, the third entry in the rebooted franchise looks to have embraced a much more light-hearted approach than its predecessor. Star Trek Beyond will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the groundbreaking franchise this year. But, now it looks as if the enterprise crew will have to blow out their candles without the help of the original Captain Kirk. Despite previous reports to the contrary, William Shatner has confirmed that he will not reprise his role in the sequel. Check out the quote below:
‘”It would have been interesting to see what their fertile imaginations could have done with somebody who is 20 years older than when Captain Kirk died [in Star Trek Generations] and how they would have explained the difference in appearance. But that never came up. I’m sure they must have thought of it one time or another but I never had a substantial conversation about replaying the role.'”
Roberto Orci‘s original script was said to include a scene that reunited both Shatner and Leonard Nimoy on screen, while pairing them with their younger selves Chris Pine and Zachary Quinto.
It is possible that the sad passing of Nimoy last year altered the decision to include the pair in the film. However it is more likely that Simon Pegg and Doug Jung‘s substantial re-writes have altered the course of the narrative to a point where the scene no longer fits. Although it is sad to hear that fans will not get to see Shatner return to the role one last time (assuming this isn’t a misdirection), it will be interesting to see what treats the film does have to offer.
Star Trek: Beyond stars Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Zoe Saldana, Simon Pegg, Karl Urban, John Cho, Anton Yelchin, Idris Elba and Sofia Boutella.
The film will be released in the UK on 22nd July. Check back for more updates!
